confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated most years in the parish, usually at Easter, and the period of preparation begins in mid January. Enrollment and 'inscription' is celebrated at a Sunday evening mass for all the candidates, their families, sponsors and catechists. Subsequently the candidates, in groups of 7 or 8, meet with their catechists each Tuesday evening from 7.15p.m to 8.30p.m.

We are fortunate with our team of catechists who are well qualified, experienced and CRB checked. While the candidates attend their own meetings the parents are invited to a session in the parish hall and have the opportunity to explore the sacrament at their own level and, together with other parents and sponsors, encourage one another on how best to support their children in the practise of their faith.

During the preparation course, the candidates have the opportunity of celebrating the sacrament of Reconciliation. There is also a day of retreat usually in March.

Confirmation is open to young people who belong to our parish who wish to be confirmed. Candidates must be in year 9 or above at school (i.e. have reached the age of 13 by the time of Confirmation). Details of the meeting for parents and candidates are announced in the Church newsletter during November..

The focus of our catechesis is to support young people in the living out of their faith, encouraging them:

to see that they are valued in themselves,

to help them value and appreciate others who are different

to be open the receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit

to help them relate to the Person of Jesus and grow in personal prayer